Rain to Stop in Time for Weekend as Sun Returns

The United Kingdom is anticipating a return to drier weather this weekend as high pressure moves in, bringing sunny spells across much of the country. While heavy downpours earlier in the week caused some localized flash flooding, these are expected to subside.

Saturday and Sunday are forecast to feature sunny periods, with daytime temperatures climbing back towards or slightly above the August average in southern England. However, the nights are predicted to become notably chilly, a stark contrast to the daytime warmth.

Friday may still see some heavy showers, particularly in England and Wales, some of which could be thundery. Scotland and Northern Ireland are expected to remain mostly dry. Northerly winds will contribute to a cooler feel along some coasts. Temperatures are likely to peak around 12°C in northern Scotland and up to 21°C in southern England, potentially marking the first time since late June that temperatures fail to reach 25°C anywhere in the UK.

Friday night is expected to be particularly cold, with temperatures potentially dropping to 3-4°C in rural parts of Scotland and northern England. Chilly nights will continue through the weekend, though with more sunshine and lighter winds, daytime highs will improve. By Sunday, afternoon temperatures are predicted to range from 16-20°C in Scotland and Northern Ireland, and 19-25°C in England and Wales. Scattered light showers are possible in the north and west, but most areas will be dry with a mix of sun and patchy cloud.

Despite the recent rainfall, the UK's drought situation persists. The National Drought Group will now meet weekly to coordinate the response, as over two-thirds of England and all of Wales remain in drought. Officials state the situation is intensifying, and drought conditions will only be declared over after months of sustained, significant rainfall. The long-range forecast remains mixed, with rain expected next week and a possibility of further hot spells in September.